Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water Review

First Impressions of Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water

The Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water duck call promises to be a versatile tool for both seasoned callers and novices alike. Dead End Game Calls is a relatively new name on the scene, but their focus on realistic sounds and user-friendly designs has quickly garnered attention. The U-Turn Open Water specifically aims to deliver a call with plenty of rasp and body, capable of reaching distant ducks while still offering finesse for finishing them close.

I’ve been hunting waterfowl for over a decade, and I’m always on the lookout for calls that can handle a variety of situations. My primary need is a call that can cut through wind and attract ducks from long distances, without sacrificing the ability to produce subtle, convincing finishing sounds. I needed something that could reach out and touch those distant flocks.

Upon receiving the call, I was immediately struck by its simple, yet functional design. The polyacrylic barrel felt solid and well-made, while the polycarbonate insert seemed durable enough to withstand the rigors of the field. It feels good in the hand, not too heavy or too light.

I’ve used calls from Duck Commander and Buck Gardner in the past, and while they each have their strengths, I was drawn to the U-Turn Open Water due to its claim of easy use and versatility. The Duck Commander calls can be a bit finicky, and the Buck Gardner requires a lot of air. The Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water seemed like a potentially better option.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The call seemed well-built, but the proof would be in the sound. I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise of being both loud and nuanced.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water on a late-season duck hunt in a flooded timber area with a connecting open field. The conditions were typical for that time of year: cold, with a light drizzle and a moderate wind. I had a good setup, but the ducks were wary, circling high before committing.

The U-Turn Open Water performed admirably, reaching out to those distant flocks with its loud, raspy hail calls. It required very little air, which was a welcome change from some of the more demanding calls I’ve used. The ducks responded well, breaking off from their high circles and giving us a closer look.

The ease of use was immediately apparent. I didn’t need to spend a lot of time adjusting my air pressure or embouchure to get a good sound. It just worked, right out of the box.

There were no major issues during the first use, although I did notice that the call seemed to get a bit “sticky” after prolonged use in the wet conditions. This may be due to moisture buildup in the insert.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use in various hunting scenarios, the Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water has proven to be a reliable and versatile tool. It has held up well to the abuse of being carried in my blind bag and used in all types of weather. There’s been no chipping or cracking in either the barrel or insert.

The call has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The polyacrylic barrel is surprisingly resistant to scratches, and the polycarbonate insert still looks as good as new. I simply wipe the call down with a clean cloth after each hunt and occasionally disassemble it to clean the insert.

Maintaining the call is straightforward. I remove the insert, rinse both parts with warm water, and let them air dry before reassembling. It doesn’t require any special tools or solvents. The U-Turn Open Water outperformed my previous calls in terms of ease of use and versatility, especially in open water situations where reaching distant ducks is crucial.

Breaking Down the Features of Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water

Specifications

The Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water features a polyacrylic barrel and a polycarbonate insert. The call is designed for both experienced and novice duck callers. It’s specifically designed as an open water call, producing plenty of rasp and body.

The call measures 8 inches in length, 3.9 inches in width, and 1.25 inches in height. The weight is very light, coming in at just 0.15 oz. The minimal amount of air required makes it very user-friendly.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the call’s overall performance and ease of use. The materials are durable and weather-resistant. The small air requirement is a huge benefit, especially for hunters who might not have the strongest lungs.

Performance & Functionality

The Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water excels at its primary function: attracting ducks from long distances and finishing them off close. It produces a loud, raspy hail call that can cut through wind and draw the attention of distant flocks. The call is also capable of producing softer, more subtle sounds for finishing ducks that are already in close proximity.

The call’s strength lies in its versatility. It can handle a wide range of calling situations, from open water to flooded timber. The only weakness I’ve encountered is the slight stickiness that can occur in very wet conditions, but this is easily remedied by occasionally wiping the insert. The call meets, and in some cases exceeds, my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water has a simple yet functional design. The polyacrylic barrel and polycarbonate insert feel solid and well-made. The call is lightweight and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.

The call is designed to be user-friendly. There’s no steep learning curve. Even novice callers should be able to produce convincing duck sounds with minimal practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The materials used in the Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water are designed for longevity. The polyacrylic barrel and polycarbonate insert are resistant to wear and tear, and the call should last for many seasons with proper care. As mentioned previously, maintaining the call is simple and straightforward, only requiring occasional cleaning with warm water and air drying.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water does not come with any additional accessories. There are no readily apparent customization options. While some callers might prefer to modify their calls with different reeds or inserts, the U-Turn Open Water is designed to perform optimally in its stock configuration.

Pros and Cons of Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water

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Who Should Buy Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water?

The Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water is perfect for duck hunters of all skill levels. It is especially well-suited for those who hunt in open water environments where reaching distant ducks is crucial. This call is also a great option for novice callers who are looking for an easy-to-use and versatile call that can help them improve their calling skills.

Those who are looking for a highly customizable call, or those who hunt exclusively in flooded timber, might want to consider other options. Hunters who prioritize customization may want to look elsewhere.

There are no must-have accessories or modifications for the Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water. It performs optimally in its stock configuration.

Conclusion on Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water

The Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water is a well-designed and versatile duck call that delivers on its promises. It offers a great combination of ease of use, durability, and realistic sound, making it a valuable tool for any duck hunter. At a price of $57.99, the U-Turn Open Water offers excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend the Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water to anyone looking for a reliable and effective duck call. Whether you’re a seasoned caller or just starting out, this call is sure to help you put more ducks in the bag. Pick up a Dead End Game Calls U-Turn Open Water today, and turn your next hunt into a dead end for those wary waterfowl!